Niki Ruda is the teacher of the year in the elementary grades. She is a speech/language pathologist for the NPPS early childhood program and has worked in the school district for 14 years.

Joshua Bruck is the teacher of the year in grades 6-12. He is the head of the high school social studies department and he also coaches middle school football, girls basketball and track.

Ronda Richman is the staff member of the year. She is a para-educator for the Early Childhood Special Education program, a job she has held for 33 years. Ronda joined the staff in 1980 after her daughter Laurie was diagnosed with a significant hearing loss and became one of the first home-bound students to receive services from the North Platte School District.

Matt Irish is the administrator of the year. He is the principal at Lincoln Elementary. He has been a school principal in North Platte for nine years.

These individuals will be honored at the Foundation’s “Education after Hours” event on Friday, April 4 at the Holiday Inn Express, beginning at 5:30 p.m. The public is invited to attend.

NPHS distinguished alumni Chuck Schwartz, Jim States, Byron Boslau and Jim McFarland will also be honored. Tickets are $25 and can be reserved by contacting Jackie at the foundation office at 696-3325 or at any NebraskaLand National Bank location.